1st International Conference on Net-Zero Built Environment: Innovations in Materials, Structures, and Management Practices (Net-Zero Future 2024)

Overview

The Net-Zero Future conference is an international event dedicated to advancing research, innovation, and collaboration in pursuing a sustainable and net-zero carbon-built environment. This inaugural conference aims to bring together leading experts, researchers, practitioners, and stakeholders worldwide to accelerate the transition toward a greener and more sustainable future.

Recognizing the urgent need for interdisciplinary collaboration, the Net-Zero Future conference seeks to bridge the gap between various disciplines and foster a holistic approach to address the complex challenges of achieving net-zero emissions. By combining expertise from diverse fields such as architecture, engineering, materials science, energy, policy, and urban planning, the conference aims to facilitate knowledge exchange, promote innovative solutions, and inspire transformative change.

The conference program will feature keynote presentations by renowned experts, technical sessions showcasing cutting-edge research and practical applications, panel discussions addressing key industry challenges, and interactive workshops providing hands-on learning opportunities. Participants will be able to explore a wide range of topics relevant to the net-zero agenda, including sustainable materials and construction techniques, energy-efficient building design, renewable energy integration, smart technologies, life cycle assessment, policy frameworks, and community engagement.

In addition to the academic and technical program, the Net-Zero Future conference will provide valuable networking opportunities, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded professionals, establish collaborations, and share experiences and best practices. The conference will also foster engagement between academia, industry leaders, policymakers, and government bodies, facilitating dialogue and partnerships to drive the adoption of sustainable practices and influence policy decisions.

As an annual event, the Net-Zero Future conference will rotate its location, providing a global perspective and allowing each edition to showcase regional advancements, challenges, and success stories. The conference will serve as a platform for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to exchange ideas, share insights, and explore innovative approaches to address the environmental and social impact of the built environment.

Conference Topics

The conference will focus on five critical thematic areas for achieving net-zero structures and minimizing the built environment's carbon footprint. These areas encompass innovative solutions, advanced technologies, and sustainable practices across the entire construction, operation, and demolition lifecycle. The conference aims to explore and advance knowledge in the following key topics:

1. New materials and material preparation processes for zero (or negative) carbon footprint

• Development of low-carbon and carbon-neutral construction materials
• Exploration of sustainable alternatives to traditional cement-based materials
• Innovations in material production techniques with minimal environmental impact
• Integration of renewable and recycled materials in construction processes

2. Robotic construction technologies for minimum formwork and on-site activities

• Adoption of robotics and automation in construction processes for increased efficiency
• Exploration of robotic fabrication techniques for sustainable and resource-efficient structures
• Integration of digital design and fabrication technologies in construction workflows
• Application of robotics for reducing waste, optimizing resource utilization, and improving construction safety

3. Novel structural designs and details for optimal performance with least material usage

• Development of lightweight and high-strength structural systems
• Optimization of structural designs for enhanced load-carrying capacity and energy efficiency
• Integration of advanced modeling and simulation techniques for structural performance evaluation
• Implementation of innovative construction methods to reduce material consumption and waste

4. Advanced condition assessment and health monitoring strategies for longest service life

• Deployment of advanced sensing technologies for structural health monitoring
• Development of predictive maintenance strategies based on real-time data analysis
• Integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in condition assessment
• Implementation of proactive measures to extend the service life of structures and minimize maintenance requirements

5. Innovative life-cycle analysis and policy-making strategies for effective civil infrastructure management

• Collaborative design and construction processes
• Life-cycle assessment and economic feasibility and cost
• Development of circular economy models for the construction industry
• Utilizing flexible design strategies to evolve net-zero standards, new technologies, or changing environmental conditions.

Deadlines

1. Abstract Submissions: 1 November 2023
2. Notification on Abstracts: 15 November 2023
3. Early Registration: 15 January 2023
4. Full Paper Submissions: 28 February 2024
5. Notification on Full Papers: 15 March 2024
6. Conference: 19-21 June 2024